Chronic cholecystitis

This code signifies a persistent, long-standing inflammation of the gallbladder, often characterized by recurrent episodes of right upper quadrant pain, nausea, and dyspepsia. It typically results from chronic irritation, frequently due to gallstones, leading to thickening of the gallbladder wall and impaired function.

Assign this code when documentation clearly indicates a diagnosis of chronic cholecystitis, often supported by imaging findings (e.g., ultrasound showing gallbladder wall thickening, cholelithiasis) and a history of recurrent biliary symptoms. It is appropriate for patients undergoing evaluation or treatment for this chronic inflammatory condition.

• Differentiate from acute cholecystitis (K81.0) based on the chronicity and absence of acute, severe symptoms.
• Always code any associated cholelithiasis (K80.-) as a primary or secondary diagnosis, as it is a common underlying cause.
• Ensure the physician's documentation explicitly states "chronic" to support this specific code.